(a/n): Thanks for reviewing, folks...as always. And of course some thoughts on what you had to say.

1 vote for "Don't get his eye back" , And a comment concerned about how someone can't fight effectively with his sight so handicapped.

Is Snape gone for good? Hell No! He's gonna come back and grovel to Harry, and swear eternal allegiance to House Potter. haha.

Is Harry going to be powerful? Was asked ... There are things that have happened. He's picked up a weapon against werewolves, and his unsolved survival after being left alone with a Dementor right before he was freed from Azkaban. The Chamber of Secrets still hasn't been visited again. Behind that wall is a room at least big enough for the Basilisk. But this isn't a Super! story

The governor general of Australia is a witch. Yep, I like taking real people's names where possible. I also got the Kwartengs in Chapt #20 from Kwasi Kwarteng an actual Surrey MP. Alberto Fujimori of Peru, former President. Stanislav Krum of Bulgaria a Viktor relative.

Dumbledore as Minister. From canon we know he refused it before. And he won't be happy. I see him like Admiral Kirk who smiled like a boy when he was demoted, or Archbishop Gilday in Godfather Part III who was a brilliant fundraiser. But had to go to the Corelones for a bailout.

23 – 6TH Year 1ST Term

News of Snape's non-trial and subsequent exile from the country was still the dominant topic aboard the Hogwarts Express, even a week after. That Harry was 'to blame' or 'the cause' depending on your point of view was well known. A knot of Gryffindors near the car Harry boarded cheered him. A boy, who was not even wearing a House insignia stuck his tongue at him then ran off.

"Fair Morning to you, Earl Potter." Said a most welcome female voice in formal language. She curtsied as he turned.

Harry took in her t-shirt, emblazoned with the words I'M A REAL WITCH and jean short-skirt and smirked "Countess Bones, an honor to greet you." He replied, taking her hand and brushing his lips across her knuckles "The Lady, your Aunt is well I trust?"

"Proper courtly manners, we are almost impressed. Aren't we gents?" Draco Malfoy sauntered up to the couple with Crabbe and Goyle flanking him. In comparison to both their casual attire, he was dressed in silk shirt, tie and suit. All deep black. His heels clicked as he nodded at Harry, then turned to Susan bowed over her hand and said "Fair Morning to you, Countess Bones."

She did not have the years of loathing for him that Harry had, so she had no difficulty replying "And to you, Master Malfoy." But that did not stop her from scratching her head and gazing curiously at the backs of the trio of Slytherins as they departed.

"Tha'bloody hell was that about?" exclaimed Ron, who had witnessed the entire exchange from inside a compartment.

Susan was about show a paper that was suddenly in her hand, but hid the motion by greeting Ron with a warm hug, pressing her cheek to his. "So begins another year of homework." She offered with a touch of humor, then to his companion a frigid "Granger."

"Great to see you Ron." Harry said, giving his friend a thump on the shoulder. He ignored Hermione and inquired "Where's Ginny?"

The redhead boy replied with a chuckle "You shoulda seen it, Harry. She made Prefect. Mum was in tears. Just about made Ginny's head pop off her shoulders. The twins, they looked so disappointed. Pouted at her."

"Well good on her!" Harry replied cheerily.

Stepping back, Ron offered "Come on in. Have a seat."

"That is not a good idea Ronald." Said Hermione venomously "Guess Potter didn't see me. Eye trouble, possibly?"

Harry snarled at her and pulled off his patch "Say thanks to Mummy and Daddy for me, bitch!"

"Well, good idea this." Ron grumbled "Hermione I'll be back in a bit."

As they sought another compartment, Harry defended himself "I DID NOT start that, Ron. And now that I think of it, I could've said something a lot worse. Next time I will."

"I know, I know, Harry." He replied "She's been holding that in for months. Maybe it's all over now. Can you at least try the ignore thing again? I'll talk to her."

Nodding, he put his eye-patch back on. Which was still embroidered with an old English G. He let that speak for itself "I'm still glad we'll be … that is …we're back at good old Hoggies again."

"Stop by and chat when you can, Ron." Susan suggested softly. She slumped into a seat and muttered "Well, that could've gone worse."

He nodded and joined her "By comparison, I'd be thrilled to see Abb – ermmm Hannah."

x

"Dammit! Han! Your timing sucks!" complained Susan some minutes later, which was rather ironic. But the couple was busy exploring each other's tongues and bodies just then.

Harry looked up, his one eye fluttered open, cheeks flushed almost purple and despite the interruption grinning "Hiya Hannah." He greeted.

"Harry." The blond Hufflepuff replied in a not unfriendly tone "Umm…sorry for…well…yaknow. I have a letter for you from Grandpa Moody. House seal and all."

Susan looked surprised. Harry took it from her, read it, and passed it to her "Well, well, never mind Auntie." She commented "You're putting together a powerful block yourself, Harry. Never hurts to have someone that doesn't mind getting his hands dirty."

"Tell you the truth, Sue?" he said "I appreciate it. But my goal this year is to have a normal … no, wrong word … Quiet, that's the word, a quiet year. I just want to complain about too much homework. And worry about passing tests. Oh … and snog my girlfriend, shoulda said that first."

The two girls giggled, then she asked "Would you mind? A little girl time? Please?" bribing him with caresses on his sides. "Pretty pleazzzzzzze."

"Keep that up … and I won't …be able to … talk." He said, huskily as he sucked on her neck. Hidden from Hannah, one hand inched up her skirt.

She giggled and squirmed off the bench "Out you brute!" she ordered, adding a playful swat. A last kiss took away even the slightest hint she was angry with him.

"Yes, dear." He said, cheerily. He decided some exploration was in order. Malfoy's behavior disturbed him and he wanted to know more. So he whipped out his Invisibility Cloak and departed.

x

Although only a Sixth Year, Draco Malfoy was now the dominant force in Slytherin. And Pansy Parkinson, who was still betrothed to him, was queen of the girls' dormitory. She soaked it in.

"It was a most interesting summer." Said Draco. That had really been all he was going to say, but something caught his eye. His father made sure he knew several tricks that were not part of a Hogwarts education. He focused on the spot, then it was gone. His eyebrows twitched up in his characteristic mannerism. Bragging, he displayed his forearm which now had the Dark Mark. "He was at my mansion. He found me worthy! The first of our generation!"

Pansy took his hand and touched a finger to the Mark. She flinched as it sizzled and pulsed at her. "Oh Draco! It's amazing! More alive than Father's!"

"You and I have much to celebrate, my dear." He said, coldly as he grabbed her wrist tightly. "The rest of you out."

Under his cloak, Harry was shocked and enraged by the sight of the mark of the man who killed his parents on Draco's arm. He desperately repressed an urge to strangle the Slytherin leader. Then he was surprised when he was pushed.

"You saw what you needed to, Potter!" hissed Draco under his breath "This will be disgusting enough without an audience! We'll talk later!"

x

Newly appointed Headmistress McGonagall repressed a bit of nervousness and took the podium. None of the pupils would know the difference. "Welcome to Hogwarts!" she began "As I am sure you all know Professor Dumbledore has been elected Minister of Magic. He was such a fixture for so long I am sure he will be sorely missed. There will, as a result of that and other issues, be a number of staff changes. Professor Horace Slughorn will be returning as both Potion Master and Head of Slytherin House."

Everyone applauded politely. He was known as the one before Snape and the one who briefly substituted for him last year. This time, it was permanent.

"Once again, we find ourselves in need of a new Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor." She continued "One of Minister Fudge's final acts was to suggest to the Board that his own Senior Undersecretary would be appropriate in light of the return of Lord Voldemort."

Various gasps, shudders, and whimpers echoed through the Great Hall.

"Finally, of course, is my own situa-" she was interrupted by

Ah-hem

Glancing around, she continued "Moving to Headmistress opens-"

Again, the interruption "Hem-hem! Thank you Headmistress. I appreciate your warm welcome. And look forward to meeting all you students. Minister Fudge felt it was important for the Ministry to have a representative here at Hogwarts to ensure the quality of your education."

"If I might continue now." McGonagall said, tightly, glaring at the new Professor "Thank you … As I was saying … I will continue with Sixth and Seventh Year Transfigurations for the sake of continuity for NEWTs. Please welcome Professor Flint who will be assuming First through Fifth Years. Some few of you might remember him, as he graduated in 1992."

Slytherin students cheered as Marcus stood to make himself known. House Affiliation aside, he was the new Headmistress' favorite as a pupil. He'd NEWTed out of Hogwarts a year early and just completed his Mastery in Transfiguration. And, nearing his 22nd birthday, the second youngest Professor of the century.

After the young professor sat, the Headmistress resumed "Assuming the Deputy post will be Professor Flitwick. And, finally, a Headmistress cannot also be a Head of House. So Professor Burbage shall take that responsibility. And now that we have all been sorted, it is my understanding that Mr. Potter has a brief announcement."

"Harry!" Ginny nudged his foot with hers, under the table.

He ignored her, dwelling on his encounter with Draco had absorbed his mind for the last few hours. He'd walked around and allowed himself to be guided by others.

Ginny knelt on her bench, leaned across the Gryffindor Table and flicked his nose "Harry! The scholarships!"

"Huh?" he grunted, staring at her blankly. He shook himself, stood and nodded "Oh … Yeah, right. Right, an owl should arrive any minute. Uhh … a little history. The Draco Potter Fund was established in 1230 by my ancestor, also Harry. It's had its ups and downs over the centuries. But, Charlus Potter instituted reforms at the end of the last century. With this year's students I am reinstating his reforms that were illegally overruled by the self-serving actions of Lucius Malfoy."

Draco looked sullen, but made no comment. Harry was only telling the truth and had been finally proven correct in Wizengamot court.

Harry flipped over the paper he was reading from "My Grandfather decided that one student, per House, per Year would have his, or her, Hogwarts expenses paid in full. Tuition. Meals. Room. Books. Equipment. There was no condition placed on Blood-status. Pure, Half, Muggleborn … didn't matter. The key requirement was to assist a family that would be burdened by putting a child through Hogwarts."

Almost perfect timing, a brown and white owl entered through the rafters and landed on Harry's shoulder. After dropping and envelop, it then flew away.

"Umm… how to do this?" he wondered for a second, scratching his scalp. "Alphabetical …I guess. First, Bertram Aubrey, Jr. Slytherin House."

A boy who must have been the smallest person, excepting Professor Flitwick, came forward with a stunned expression.

"Congratulations." Said Harry as he gripped the tiny hand. He recognized the boy as the very same that had stuck his tongue out on the train. But, Harry repressed any reaction "And good luck. This scroll contains everything you need to do and your parents need to sign."

The youngster stared at him, nodded, muttered "Thanks" and somewhat stumbled back to his seat. Quite suddenly, the entire Great Hall forgot they had not eaten and focused on Harry. Particularly attentive were the First Years, who as it happened were also closest to the front and therefore, him.

"Right. Next." Said Harry, nervously. He had the feeling of being entirely on display. "Uhh… Hufflepuff ... Beatrice Dunstan.

A squeal came from the Hufflepuff Table. A black girl, obviously the named winner, stood up and promptly passed out.

"That went well." He commented "Umm…new rule… no fainting. Ah! My own House next!"

The Gryffindor First Years immediately perked up. A bit of accidental magic made one boy actually float off the bench. A blue light glowed under his legs.

"Seamus O'Shea." Harry called out. And, once the boy took his scroll, Harry asked "Don't you live on Wisteria?"

The First Year nodded and admitted "Yeah, it's my stupid sister that's always stalking Dudley."

"Well, I won't hold that against you." Harry quipped, giving a playful slap on the boy's shoulder. Humor spilled over as he read the last name "Someone is having a bit of fun here. For Ravenclaw, I have Gwenog Rosier."

This last was something of an enigma. The girl looked uncomfortable in her school robes, but seemed haughty. She hid one side of her face with hair as she approached Harry. "I, and my family, are most appreciative m'Lord." She said in formal words "To whom should we address our correspondence?"

"In other words, who awards the scholarships?" Harry grinned down at her and winked. A hint of a twinkle that probably would have annoyed him had someone commented on it appeared "Of that, I'll only say two things. You are free to guess who makes the decisions. Again, it's not me. Not as long as I'm still a student. And, second, even if you guess right I will neither confirm nor deny it. Just send your letters to The Draco Potter Fund; in care of Gingotts."

The Headmistress took center stage again and applauded. Everyone, well … most everyone … in the Great Hall did as well. "That was, Mr. Potter, most gratifying. Thank you. For this evening, I only have one last announcement. Let the feast … begin!"

Food appeared as Harry was walking back to his spot at the Gryffindor Table. He licked his lips greedily as all the various meats and vegetables appeared. So he was annoyed when someone took his hand "Can't I eat?" he snapped, then "Ohh … sorry, Luna. What can I do for you?"

"Daddy wanted me to again say thank you for the wonderful story." She replied "And, I was wondering, you don't care for Rita Skeeter do you?"

With a hint of impatience that came from his empty belly, he answered "No, you know that."

"Just making sure." She explained, completely unaffected by his tone "Then wouldn't it be wise to have a few pictures appear in The Quibbler."

Though hungry, the suggestion worked through and he nodded "Good thinking, Luna. Stay after the feast." He patted her shoulder and returned to his seat. He paused and attracted Colin's attention "Got a job for ya. Get'cher camera."

"Didn't you work me enough over the summer?" Colin complained, good-naturely.

A light banishing spell flicked a bit of mashed potatoes and the Fifth Year boy, to the amusement of fellow Gryffindors. It was below the level of needing teacher attention.

THE QUIBBLER

Sept 2 1996

HARRY POTTER HONORS ANCESTOR

Since his release from Azkaban, Harry Potter has been what many call a disruptive force. In fact, this reporter agrees with the term if not the negative connotation. Occasionally, the status quo needs a good disruption. The future 57th Head of House Potter last night announced this year's recipients of the Draco Potter Fund's Scholarship to Hogwarts. Most definitely disrupting its previous modus operandi. As he previously stated, there had not been a single Gryffindor or Hufflepuff recipient in the memory of any current student.

Lord Harry spoke proudly of the man he said was, for a time, referred to as the Fifth Founder. We will investigate this remark for historical accuracy. While mentioning Dark Lady Mariska Potter, the first of three who used the Fund throughout the 13th Century to buy influence in the Wizengamot, Harry said that both Draco and his Grandson Harry who established the Fund were the most brilliant investors of their age. With a wry tone and a glance at his best friend, he announced "Possibly even better than this guy named Arthur."

It was remarkable, even precedent setting, to watch. Many have long hoped for a certain unity within our great school. But especially since the rise of Lord V-CENSORED-t we have seen it fall into open hostility among the Houses. For a young man known as The Golden Gryffindor, to announce full scholarships to students of each House is a hopeful sign. It was amazing to watch. One would guess it was by design. There was a fine disregard for Blood Status and sex. Though naturally we would not want First Years to think much about sex.

"One question has been plaguing my mind, Earl Potter. If I may?" this reporter queried.

And epitome of courtesy, the young Nobleman replied "Only one? You underestimate yourself Luna. And, please, we are friends. Call me, Harry."

"Not in my professional capacity, Sire." I demurred, politely "To proceed, your method of awarding the Scholarships caused quite a stir. And no one can quite understand how it was managed. You had no apparent foreknowledge of who would be sorted into which House. Who might qualify under the terms as you explained them. In short, how did you do it?"

Harry Potter has a remarkably charismatic presence. His eyes lit with mischievous glee as he patted my knee lightly. It is quite an experience to be touched by him. Although it was by no means a sexual advance on his part, I could not help feeling a stir in my loi- sorry Daddy. Yes, sir, back to the story.

With an eye-twinkling chuckle, Earl Potter offered a simple enigmatic one-word answer "Magic."

Disclaimer: House Lovegood was created a Noble House via Wizengamot vote in 1667, sponsor Lady Teeva Potter.

See Page 7 for details of Scholarship Winners

By Luna Lovegood.

"You are, without a doubt, my favorite Ravenclaw!" exclaimed Harry, after finishing the article. He bear-hugged the budding writer.

The new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher was in charge of the Hall that morning "A lovely display, Mr. Potter. However I do believe that classes are due to begin shortly. If you do not wish to go hungry, I suggest you proceed … quickly."

"Yes, Professor Umbridge." He replied and made his way towards Susan at the Hufflepuff Table. He kissed her cheek happily and inquired "You saw The Quibbler? I assume?"

She nodded, swallowed some cereal and replied "Uh-huh. About time you got some positive press. But I bet someone will write about how you're cheating on me with Luna."

x

"I would assume my presence is something of a surprise." Said Professor Flint to Harry and his fellow Sixth Years "You lot were Second Years when I left. What? Nothing to say, … Mr. Potter?"

Nonplussed, Harry offered in a neutral tone "Welcome back, sir."

"Nothing else?" Flint asked in a clearly taunting tone. "About Quidditch, possibly?"

Professor McGonagall, who had been present the entire time advanced slightly from the shadows and glared at her young colleague.

"Permission to speak candidly?" asked Harry. When it was granted, he offered "Well, not to brag, but I predict a good year for Gryffindor. Been about five years since I've had a challenge from Slytherin in that department."

The whole class gasped. They all flitted their eyes between the professors and Harry expecting an anvil to land on his head. Draco Malfoy, who was minus Goyle as he did not pass the Transfiguration OWL sneered at him.

"Amusing." Said Flint with a faint chuckle "That's five points to Gryffindor. Twice. Everyone, a short essay. That's short, Miss Granger. On exactly what you think I just awarded those points for. I look forward to the very creative theories you'll come up with. And, the probably handful, of right answers. Class. Headmistress." He concluded, and exited.

McGonagall nodded and began her class "I felt it necessary that everyone have a proper introduction to our new professor. Lessons from this point on will center around Human Transfiguration. Your ultimate goal is to become an Animagus. Now who can tell me-?" she stopped and eyed her current favorite " - Yes, no doubt, Miss Granger. But suppose we allow someone else to answer. Mr. Malfoy, no helping. How about you Mr. Crabbe?"

"Someone that can turn into an animal." The rather slow Slytherin replied.

Nodding, MCGonagall said "Somewhat simplistic, but sufficient to get us started. Now it is not necessary to become an Animagus to achieve full marks in this class. Changing someone into an animal, plant, or even inanimate object is sufficient. A few of you will even manage to turn into something else by your own magic. That is not what an Animagus does. He, or she, is not changing form. Animagii ARE their form. I could turn any of you into almost anything you care to name. But you would still have merely your own human senses."

"How do we do it!" asked Hermione, excitedly as she flipped to the last pages of the textbook.

The Professor closed her book and rested her hand on it "This time, Miss Granger, you will not find all the answers there. And you will discover that it is more in your heart than in your head."

"Like she's got one!" Harry muttered, barely realizing he'd spoken aloud. Until, that is, the whole class was staring at him.

Looking irritated, the Headmistress ordered "See me after class, Potter." And resumed her lesson.

x

"You have been here long enough to know I do not tolerate interruptions in class." McGonagall said, coolly. She rarely displayed any sort of temper, it was this that showed how upset she was. "I have always strived to avoid getting involved in students' lives. But, that does not mean I am blind. From the moment Mister Weasley, yourself and Miss Granger became friends I knew there was nothing you could not do."

Harry pulled off his eyepatch and said "Well those days are dead!"

"That is, strictly, your affair." She admitted, with a sadness in her voice. And it was impossible not to react to seeing the boy's damaged face "However … you will not disrupt my class again that way. And … if you find it impossible to say anything nice about Miss Granger … simply say nothing at all. AM I clear?"

Harry nodded and apologized "Sorry for disrupting the class."

"But not for what you said?" she asked.

He shrugged "Not really. No."

"I see." She said, resignation in her voice "Then can I prevail upon you to at least wear something less provocative?"

At that, Harry turned cold and formal "Professor, the only way I'd wear anything different is if Dumbledore was still here. I got a couple that are nicely decorated with a D. He stopped Mungo's from treating me. And her Mother did this. She doesn't like it? Well tough!"

"I believe two days detention will be sufficient punishment. Report to Mr. Filch tonight and tomorrow. He has a lot of work on the repainting project." She decided.

Harry didn't think it unreasonable, nodded, and took her looking at paperwork on her desk as a dismissal.

Minerva felt an ache as she watched him leave. Harry did remind her so much of his parents. But, the shattering of a virtual sibling relationship reminded her of her own regrets. So she set out to hopefully correct it. Thinking of the brother she had not even seen since before even James and Lily were born. As a teenager, she'd watched her father disown his son because he did not get a Hogwarts letter on his eleventh birthday.

Dear Topi

Well, perhaps I don't have the right to use that anymore. Recent events have made me regret the past. Father casting you out was disgraceful. And I do not deny my own culpability in that. I will not ask for forgiveness, especially not in a letter. That would be cowardly.

My duties are essentially 24/7 but I can get away. Just tell me when and where. I will come. I should have decades ago.

Love

A foolish old woman and your sister

Minnie

As Headmistress, she did not have to go to the owlery to send a letter. All the school owls were sensitive to staff needs. After some hooting and squawking, a brown and yellow owl took flight. She addressed it "I need you to find Topaz McGonagall. My brother. I would be most grateful if you would be so kind as to await a reply."

The owl's head nodded , it took off and was soon lost in the bright, midday sun.

x

The evening Daily Prophet proved Susan a practically perfect predictor. "Well, the only part this rag got wrong is me being broken up about the whole thing." She commented.

Harry gagged on a mouthful of pumpkin juice.

"Well I'm right snarked about it!" growled Neville.

Suddenly there was a red-headed, dreamy Luna at the table "Whyever for, Nevie-poo? Ohhh! They left out the part about me keeping you happy while they're doing their thing!"

"What!" Both boys yelled as one.

Luna merely blinked and casually tossed fuel onto the fire by asking "So SuSu, which one's better?"

"I'll have to think about it LuLu." Susan answered, trying to wrap her mind around what she just got herself into "Now, Nevie-poo is quite impressive. But, Harrikins, now …wellllllll… he does this thing and I … umm … perhaps we should stop, rest of the school and all."

The Ravenclaw girl nodded and added sagely "Most wise. Sorry girls, get your own."

Traffic in the Great Hall slowly returned to normal. Except for Parvati Patil and Lavender Brown who rushed out believing they'd hit a gold mine.

Luna rested her head on Neville's shoulder and chewed contentedly on a roll. Susan looked across the table and giggled a bit, then at the still gob-smacked Harry "Seemed like a good idea at the time." She offered.

And so it went for most of the week Harry and Neville's joint and agreed upon response was "A gentleman never kisses and tells."

"Sic simper decibalus!" declared Luna, weaving her wand intricately when a Molly Weasley Howler erupted in front of Harry the next evening. The envelope and parchment worked itself and twisted around as if speaking but there was utter silence. She clapped happily as it shredded and announced "Something Mummy worked up before her accident."

x

Professor McGonagall stood as breakfast of September 14 was about to start. "I have an announcement."

A few groans were heard from the student body. Call it the Ron Weasley faction of empty stomachs if you like.

"As a special treat." She disregarded them "I have spoken to the town, and all other interested parties. Instead of the 28th as our first Hogsmeade day, all those with signed permissions will be allowed to visit today."

There was a silent several seconds. Then everyone cheered. The sound disrupted the magic of the ceiling so that, for one of the few times, bare stone was seen.

"I want it known!" she went on over the noise "I want it known! That I, myself, will be in town! And will be most disappointed with any troublemakers!"

Luna tilted her head in contemplation and said "Do you notice? The Headmistress seems unusually happy."

"Got the same sour puss, far as I can tell." A Seventh Year grumbled "Shaddup Looney."

x

"Harrieeeee! Heeheeheehee!" Susan giggled. She shivered as his fingertips teased her bare back. She seized the wrist and pushed it away. "I hate when you do that!"

Harry just smirked and slipped his other hand under her t-shirt. "No you don't." he countered with great authority. He felt her pull away and complained "What? I wasn't even-"

"Look, it's Professor McGonagall." She said "Going into the Madam Rosmerta's."

He shrugged and whispered "So what? You have seen her eat before. This ear's more interesting."

"She looks a bit … I dunno … worried about something." She observed. He ignored her and trailed nibbles down her neck. "Come on Harry! Aren't you the least be curious?"

He gave her a look "Let's see. I'm a boy. Cuddled up with a beautiful girl. Whose curiosity, by the way, always seems to lead to deadly situations. Tell me, if you were me what would you do?"

"Never cuddled with a girl before." She retorted flippantly, "Know any? So anywho … what's to happen around here? Ginny Weasley hexing random Hufflepuffs, perhaps? Besides, I'm the curious one. And I could use a meal …growing girl and all." She dragged a reluctant, muttering Harry into the restaurant.

Inside The Three Broomsticks, the couple just loitered at the entrance for a while. Madam Rosmerta was serving and two waitresses were taking orders, no one approached Harry and Susan. This suited the redhead just fine. After a few minutes, an elegantly dressed man entered with two others. Susan immediately identified them as guards of some kind. Black-suited and black ties. He tapped his wand on the counter and it emitted a white flash and a churchbell BONG.

"Why yes, m'Lord." The proprietress rushed over and curtsied "You honor our humble establishment."

Harry and Susan exchanged looks, thinking the same thought. That this man looked rather familiar. It was proven the instant he identified himself.

"Topaz McGonagall, my dear." He said "I do believe I am expected. If the Hogwarts Headmistress is present, might I be escorted. Failing that, kindly provide myself and my associates with suitable quarters."

Madam Rosmerta stood upright and extended her left arm "In fact, sir, Headmistress McGonagall arrived just minutes ago and informed us she would be having a guest. If you would allow me to show you the way? I'll get you a spot in a minute, kids."

"Thank you, Madam." Said Susan, she squeezed Harry's hand to silence a protest about the fact they'd been stepped over for seating. "I should much rather see where they're sitting and get a spot nearby."

His eyebrow ticked up in amusement and he said, rather than asked "Snooping?"

"Kettle. Pot. Black." She declared.

He deliberately misinterpreted and countered "Name's POTTER actually."

"Now, please." Madam Rosmerta returned, indicating the opposite direction from where she'd just led the trio of imposing men.

Harry reacted instantly, and effectively, he released Susan and clenched Madam Rosmerta's hand. In his was a Galleon. And making no reference at all to the coin, he told her "You know, Rosie, after my incarceration I've been a little skittish in enclosed spaces. Might I have a spot near a window. Preferably a big one."

"Well of course, Harry, lad." She replied and led them exactly where Susan wanted to go.

Granted the backs of the booths were rather high, but magicals had ways of getting around such trivial things. Susan offered a girlish smile to one of the large guards. He just stood there, stock still. Not speaking. Every senior Hogwarts student had been here countless times, but Susan studied The Three Broomsticks in ways her Aunt Amelia taught her. To Harry's utter shock, she held her wand rather awkwardly and fired at the floor. There was a blue glow as it struck metal that bolted their table to the floor. It rebounded off something on the ceiling and vanished in the booth behind them, which was where the McGonagalls sat. Suddenly they could clearly hear conversation.

" - am, with respect, it is customary in my society to speak casually during meals." Said a male voice. This the young couple knew to be Topaz McGonagall.

The Headmistress' voice was slightly stressed, her Scottish accent coming out in a way that was surprising to both students "Of course, as you like. Might I inquire, then, where do you live? I had to leave my owl to his own devices to locate you."

"Quite." Was the rather cold rejoinder "Ireland, as it happens. Dublin specifically. Work keeps me there most of the time."

Minerva's response seemed laced with nervousness "I have never been there. I would not have minded the trip. And, as I wrote, I would have gladly come to you."

"Surely you would not deny me the opportunity to see Hogwarts." Replied Topaz "I do understand you have spent most of your life here. And now Headmistress. You must be very proud. Depending on how this works out, I might have to impose on you for a tour."

Her next reply seemed much easier "I should be delighted. Obviously, you know my position. I am new to the role of Headmistress. But, I have been a professor for about forty years. Might we talk of yours? You mentioned Dublin."

"I divide my time, actually." Topaz answered "There was considerable wealth to be made in the wake of Independence. Watching my holdings in the market is a chore, but I enjoy it. My other responsibilities are governmental. In part, I liaise between the Irish Wizard and Muggle governments."

Susan was beginning to feel uneasy about spying. And that was the exact word she thought, anything else would be dishonest. And, as the McGonagalls began discussing inconsequentials such as Scottish weather compared to Irish weather it seemed rather silly.

Harry ordered a single large butterbeer. Not that he wasn't able to afford two, but one with two straws was more intimate. The glass emptied and they got a refill, that one was more than half gone. With a flick of an eyebrow he suggested canceling the listening spell.

That, though, was when the tone of conversation changed -